Good skin is always in. In a world where one is constantly being photographed courtesy social media and smartphones, it isn’t surprising that looking your best is no longer the exclusivity of the rich and famous.
In our quest to take care of ourselves and look our best, nothing is as important as what you feed your body. What you eat directly affects how you feel, how you function, and also – how you look.
Now that summer is about to descend upon us in full force – and most of us will be observing a fast as well – the options for what you can eat and when you can eat often gets narrowed down by quite a margin. For those on a fast, since the eating window is considerably short during the month of Ramadan, most of us tend to eat fried foods loaded with sodium and trans fats (which are a huge no-no for the body). Replacing these bad boys with better alternatives cannot just help your skin and body glow, but also keep you full for longer and help you feel more active and energetic!
Water
This probably sounds extremely clichéd and basic, but if there is one potion to good health and hydration, it’s good old H2O. Drink up as much water as you can, either on its own or flavoured with a wedge of lemon. This works as a natural alkalizer and helps your body detox. There is a reason the human body comprises of so much fluid. Water is essential to the proper functioning of every organ, including the skin. Cracked lips, sallow eyes and dry skin could all be a symbol of a deeper, more underlying case of dehydration. So drink up!
Berries
Berries are loaded with anti-oxidants and anthocyanins that protect the body from cancer, protect the skin from sun damage and aging and reduce inflammation. These fruits are available easily and are low on glycemic index, so you can consume them guilt-free. You can choose from strawberries, blueberries, blackberries, raspberries and grapes.
Cruciferous Vegetables
Here is the good thing about these vegetables – they are loaded with Selenium and Sulfur. Both of these minerals are great for the skin and help purify the blood, restrict tryrosinase production and leave you with brighter, healthier skin. Vegetables like broccoli, cabbage and cauliflower are classified under this category. These are also an excellent choice for those trying to shed some pounds.
Vitamin C-rich Foods
What most cosmetic companies won’t tell you is that the single most important ingredient in serums, creams and lotions is this very affordable miracle ‘brightening component’. Vitamin C is found richly in tropical fruits like lemons, pineapples and oranges. It is also found in the humble lemon, a staple in every Arab kitchen. Incorporate at least two servings of Vitamin C-rich foods to your diet every day.
An important part of the tissues in your skin is collagen. Vitamin C aides in the production of collagen (which your skin naturally depletes as you get older) and helps your skin stay firm and supple. If you find it difficult to include these foods you could always take vitamin C supplements.
Seeds
Edible seeds are an excellent source of protein and are rich in oils. Sunflower seeds, flax seeds, chia seeds and sesame seeds are great for your skin. You can add these seeds to your smoothie, salads, dessert or even eat them on their own. They taste delicious regardless.
It also helps to remember that an adequate amount of exercise, using a good protective sunscreen and staying hydrated, all help you look and feel beautiful.
Rachel has a deep passion for wellness and beauty and regularly writes on wellness, skincare and travel. She has worked with several high profile beauty gurus like Nilo Haq in the Middle East and has authored several columns for the well-being of the Arab woman, both on the inside and the outside. Rachel can be found on Instagram @cookielibrary